Chinese New Year Traditions and Customs Explained

Chinese New Year is a significant holiday marked by family gatherings, gift-giving, and traditional foods. It follows the lunar calendar, with each year named after one of 12 zodiac animals. The zodiac story involves the Buddha or Jade Emperor inviting animals to a New Year celebration, resulting in the naming of years after the first 12 animals to arrive. Customs include giving red envelopes with money to children, symbolizing good luck. Celebrations feature parades with floats, lion and dragon dances, and cultural performances.

What is the basis for determining the date of Chinese New Year each year?

• The harvest season

• The Gregorian calendar

• The lunar calendar

• The solar calendar

Which animal is associated with the year 2009 in the Chinese Zodiac?

• Rat

• Tiger

• Dragon

• Ox

According to the story, who invited the animals to celebrate the New Year?

• A famous Chinese philosopher

• The Emperor of China

• A legendary dragon

• The Jade Emperor or Buddha

What is the purpose of giving red envelopes during Chinese New Year?

• To symbolize wealth

• To bring good luck

• To celebrate a birthday

• To show respect

What type of performances are typically seen in Chinese New Year parades?

• Acrobats

• Ballet dancers

• Traditional lion and dragon dancers

• Opera singers